How to Outfit an RV for a Family Vacation

Now that you have purchased a recreational vehicle, or RV, for your next family vacation, you must outfit it with supplies and accessories. What to buy new and what to bring from home can be confusing. Here is an easy step-by-step guide to outfitting an RV with all the right accessories.

Instructions

Outfitting an RV Kitchen

1. Visit a thrift store or discount store to pick up a cheap set of dishes, cookware and silverware.

2. Purchase a second set of salt and pepper shakers, spices, tin foil, plastic wrap and dish soap rather than toting along the ones you keep in your home kitchen. This will help you avoid forgetting items during your camping trip.

3. Pick up an inexpensive set of dish towels and dish cloths, or bring some from your home kitchen.

4. Purchase small appliances such as a microwave and electric coffemaker for convenience cooking.

Outfitting an RV Bathroom

1. Stock the RV bathroom with limited supplies. No fancy creams or makeup, please! Bar soap, shampoo and conditioner are the basics.

2. Purchase a second set of toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss to keep in your RV.

3. Pack your least favorite bathroom towels. After all, you are roughing it.

Outfitting an RV Bedroom

1. Pack sleeping bags that are good for cold weather.

2. Bring pillows from home. Having your own pillow will help you sleep better.

3. Include a favorite stuffed animal or blanket if a small child will be joining you. It will help her sleep better.

Outfitting an RV for the Great Outdoors

1. Pack charcoal and wood for cooking outside.

2. Bring lawn chairs for sitting around the campfire.

3. String a clothesline to hang wet bathing suits and towels.

4. Pack a plastic tablecloth to cover up the grungy picnic tables at your campsite.

5. Stock battery-operated lanterns, flashlights and extra batteries for night time.

6. Buy plenty of bug spray and sunscreen.

Tips & Warnings

• While it is tempting to use plastic flatware and paper plates, these items often end up in landfills. Be kind to the environment and pack reusable dishes for your vacation.

• If you are planning to use a campground shower, purchase a plastic pail to carry your shampoo, soap and conditioner.

Resources

• A comprehensive site about RV camping for beginners.